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MTHFR Mutation? Why Oral Contraceptives Are Not Recommended

MTHFR Mutation? Why Oral Contraceptives Are Not Recommended

TL;DR Oral contraceptives, or "the Pill," can lower folate levels, which is critical for health and pregnancy. This is especially concerning if you have an MTHFR mutation, as it reduces your body's ability to process folate. Low folate levels can increase risks like pregnancy complications, cardiovascular issues, and mood imbalances. If you plan to conceive, ensure your folate levels are adequate or consider alternatives like hormone-free IUDs or fertility awareness. If you stay on the Pill, support your body with methylfolate and B12 supplements. Always talk to your healthcare practitioner to find the best option for your health and lifestyle.

Does the Pill Deplete Folate?

women taking pill

Oral contraceptives, commonly known as "the Pill," are widely used for birth control, but they can have some potential downsides—especially if you're planning to have children or have specific genetic considerations. One significant concern is their impact on folate levels, a vital nutrient needed for many bodily functions, including a healthy pregnancy.

A paper titled "Oral Contraceptives: Effects on Folate and Vitamin B12 Metabolism"1 explains this issue in detail. It states that oral contraceptives interfere with folate metabolism, impairing your body's ability to store adequate levels of this vital nutrient. Women who become pregnant within six months of discontinuing the Pill are shown to have lower serum and erythrocyte folate levels compared to those who haven't used oral contraceptives. Low folate levels can increase the risk of pregnancy complications.

Experts recommend that women planning to conceive after using oral contraceptives ensure their folate levels are sufficient or consider taking a folate supplement beforehand. This is especially important if you carry an MTHFR mutation, which can further impair your body's ability to process folate effectively.

What’s MTHFR, and Why Does It Matter?

MTHFR

MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase) is a critical enzyme that your body needs to produce methylfolate, the most active form of folate. If you have a mutation in the MTHFR gene—such as the C677T or A1298C variants—your body's ability to produce methylfolate is significantly reduced.

Approximately 50% of certain populations, such as those with Mexican and Italian ancestry, are affected by MTHFR mutations.2 The impact can vary depending on whether you have one copy of the mutation (heterozygous) or two (homozygous). A single mutation can reduce MTHFR enzyme functionality by about 30%, while having two can limit it by approximately 70%.

Suppose you're combining oral contraceptives with an MTHFR C677T mutation. In that case, your methylfolate levels are highly likely to dip below normal levels, creating potential health challenges.

What Are the Risks of Combining the Pill with MTHFR Mutations?

Pregnant belly

If you have MTHFR mutations, you were ‘born’ with a dirty MTHFR. If you take birth control pills, your MTHFR gene ‘gets’ dirty, regardless of whether you were born with a ‘dirty’ or ‘clean’ gene. By taking birth control pills and having MTHFR mutations, you may be amplifying your ‘dirty’ MTHFR gene, facing higher risks of cardiovascular problems and other health issues.

Here are some key risks of combining birth control pills with MTHFR mutations:

  • Diminished folate and methylfolate levels
  • Higher chance of cardiovascular health issues3,4,
  • Greater likelihood of developing high levels of homocysteine in the blood5
  • Possible increased risk of pregnancy complications if you become pregnant6
  • Mood imbalances

It's essential for you to talk with your healthcare practitioner about your medical history and any genetic testing results before starting birth control pills. They can help you determine the safest contraceptive options based on your individual risk factors.

What Are Safer Birth Control Alternatives?

women looking at a calendar

If you're concerned about the impact of oral contraceptives on your health—especially if you have an MTHFR mutation—consider exploring alternative birth control methods. Here are some hormone-free or less invasive options to look into, as recommended by Dr. Keyena McKenzie, ND:

  • Fertility Awareness Method: Learn how to track your cycle effectively with the book Taking Charge of Your Fertility by Toni Weschler.
  • Paragard IUD: A hormone-free intrauterine device (IUD) that provides up to 10 years of protection.
  • Vasectomy: A permanent solution for couples who are done having children.
  • Condoms: A simple, non-invasive option available to everyone.

These methods are worth considering if you want to avoid the potential risks of oral contraceptives while still achieving effective birth control.

Want to Stay On the Pill? Here’s What to Do!

Doctor and patient

If you prefer to stick with oral contraceptives despite the potential health risks, it’s essential to support your body by maintaining healthy methylfolate and methylcobalamin (active B12) levels. A practical solution is to take ½ to 1 tablet daily of an active B12 supplement with methylfolate, allowing it to dissolve under your tongue in the morning before swallowing. Your healthcare practitioner can help you determine the support your body needs.

If you know you carry the MTHFR mutation, you may require higher doses of methylfolate. However, monitor for signs of excess methylfolate, such as irritability or overstimulation. If these occur, reach out to your healthcare practitioner so they can help you adjust your dose accordingly.

What Can You Expect When Coming Off the Pill?

a plate of vegetables

Coming off the Pill requires some extra care to support your body’s recovery. This includes replenishing essential nutrients, balancing your hormones, and ensuring optimal health.

The book Beyond the Pill is a valuable resource for taking charge of your health post-Pill. It offers practical advice to help you bounce back and support hormonal balance in your body.

Methylation Supplements from Seeking Health

Give your body the extra care it needs with an MTHFR mutation! Dr. Ben Lynch developed our methylation supplements to support the building blocks of life and overall health and well-being. Our scientifically-backed formulas offer methylation support to help keep your homocysteine levels in check along with a healthy and nutritious diet.

Methyl B12 with L-Methlfolate

Methyl B12 with L-Methylfolate supports healthy methylation, homocysteine regulation, and energy production. It provides methylfolate and active B12, which can bypass the MTHFR gene to support methylation pathways for those with genetic mutations.

Methyl B12 1000

Methyl B12 1000 provides a potent dose of bioavailable vitamin B12 in a delicious, well-absorbed lozenge. Each serving contains a 1,000 mcg mixture of methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin.

Homocycstein

Homocysteine Nutrients supplies bioactive forms of four essential B vitamins along with betaine (trimethylglycine or TMG). These nutrients synergistically support healthy methylation and homocysteine metabolism.

Hydroxo B12 with Folinic Acid

Hydroxo B12 with Folinic Acid provides a potent dose of methyl-free folate and vitamin B12 in a delicious, well-digested lozenge. This targeted formula is perfect if you are looking for a potent dose of methyl-free B12 and folate for your methylation-support protocol.

The Bottom Line

Women looking out the window

Whether you're planning to grow your family soon, manage the implications of an MTHFR mutation, or want to choose the healthiest birth control option for you, understanding how oral contraceptives affect your body is essential. Take steps to safeguard your health by exploring alternative options or adjusting your supplementation if you stay on the Pill.

Your health deserves to be a priority. Take control, make informed choices, and focus on what works best for you. Turn to Seeking Health for your MTHFR support needs!


References

  1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7037144/
  2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16522920/
  3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15946211/
  4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16595080/
  5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32478379/
  6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29115087/

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.